Christmas is when the spirit of giving shines but how does one decide which organization or cause is this year’s donation of choice and if those donations are indeed wisely spent or used? Shoppers are bombarded with requests for cash donations or a good will offering, while others are asked for non-perishable food items, clothes or other needed goods for those less fortunate.

It’s tough to choose what person(s) should receive assistance, in any shape or form, but we do it each and every holiday season.

There are just as many causes and those less fortunate in 2013 as there were 20 years ago — if not more.

It’s not only a donation — it could mean the difference between life and death for some, so it’s no easy choice. But again, we make it, each and every gift giving season, even when money is scarce for those giving.

In Canada, life is not white and fluffy with a decorative motif for many who live in poverty and rely on the assistance of others to survive. In Canada, food banks and clothing banks and the like are a must, in order for many Canadians to eat and stay warm.

In Canada, Canadians give, without question, when those in need — need. But…those who barely make enough money themselves to live almost comfortably, sometimes need to refrain from helping others, which causes stress not only at Christmas, but the entire year.

Canada, governmentally speaking, needs to step up even more these days to provide assistance for those needing it most and not rely on the goodness of others to help support worthwhile organizations and individuals. Even though Canadians step up to the plate each and every time to help out when needed.

Sure, a Canadian’s taxes pay for monetary assistance throughout the country and for that Canadians are grateful. But…why is it so many organizations and individuals seek the necessary funds to keep on keeping on or to simply get by?

Health care suffers, pensioners suffer, those affected by illness or disability suffer, laid-off workers suffer, education suffers and the list goes on and on. And all this suffering financially is in Canada, of all places — a country that prides itself in taking care of its own. We’ve come a long way but there’s still a long way to go.

So, in 2014, Canadians will move forward with the hope Canadian government policies will follow, with news of fellowship and good will towards men, women and children from coast-to-coast, especially for those who need it most.

This holiday season keep up the good work Canada and may the generosity continue throughout the New Year and beyond.